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Parents press board over principal's administrative leave and bullying complaints at Samson Weber and Paul Robeson-Malcolm X Academy
Summary
Multiple public commenters told the board that Samson Weber students faced repeated bullying and that Paul Robeson-Malcolm X Academy's principal has been on administrative leave since Jan. 31; speakers demanded clearer district communication and the principal's return.
Several parents and community members used the board's public comment period to press the district for clearer communication about school leadership and student safety.
A Samson Weber student, identified in the meeting as Veil Mosley, and Mosley—s grandmother described repeated bullying incidents at Samson Weber, including physical assaults that family members said school staff had not adequately addressed. The grandmother said she had filed complaints and sought follow-up; she told the board that when her granddaughter reported abuse she was told to "sit in your seat" and that alleged perpetrators had not been disciplined in a way visible to the family.
Parents and community leaders also asked for transparency about administrative actions at Paul Robeson'Malcolm X Academy. Several speakers said the school's principal, Dr. Robinson, has been on administrative leave since Jan. 31 and that families were not notified by robocall or district communication; speakers said the lack of timely communication created speculation and concern. Superintendent Michael Beatty told the board he had provided a general timeline privately and that he expected Dr. Robinson to return to the school in about two weeks; Beatty said the district balances employee due-process rights and the community's right to information.
Board members in the meeting urged staff to improve communication with parents and to make clear that schools should be flexible about uniforms and basic needs when students are displaced or experiencing hardship. Board members also requested expedited follow-up by operations and the homeless office where repairs, washer/dryer installations and other building issues were raised by parents during public comment.
The superintendent told the board staff had followed up with the family from Samson Weber during February and reiterated the district's obligation to protect student privacy while addressing bullying allegations; he encouraged families to use school liaisons and the homeless/referral forms when immediate help is needed.
